<p>JALALABAD (Pajhwok): The Nangarhar <a href="/en/agriculture" class="glossify-link">Agriculture</a>, Irrigation and Livestock Department says the cultivation of flowers has grown in the province, fetching 40 million afghanis annually.</p>
<p>The department said around 500 acres of land in three districts had been cultivated with flowers, which provided job opportunities for hundreds of growers.</p>
<p>Zabihullah Hassanzai, the agriculture director, told Pajhwok Afghan News that they had started cultivating flowers as an alternative to poppies and to provide jobs for farmers.</p>
<p>The department was trying to extend the culture of flower cultivation to other districts as well. The Nangarhar rose perfume has found its way to foreign markets and traders receive 40 million afghanis annually from it.</p>
<p>Mohammad Akbar Mommand, owner of a flower-processing plant, told Pajhwok flowers were currently being grown by 800 farmers in Dara-i-Noor, Nazian and Achin districts.</p>
<p>He added around 100 people were working in the plant. Flowers will also be cultivated in other districts if security is ensured there.</p>
<p>Loo Shah Khan, a grower from Dara-i-Noor district who has cultivated flowers on his land, growing roses was easier than other crops.</p>
<p>The agriculture director promised paving the ground next year for growers in cold ares to cultivate flowers on their lands.</p>
<p>sa/mud</p>
